Day 1 — London, England

Arrive in London and transfer to your hotel overlooking Hyde Park. This evening, meet fellow travelers, trip staff, and your Smithsonian Journeys Expert for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel. (R,D)

Day 2-4 — Tbilisi, Georgia

Poised at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Georgia harbors a treasure trove of historic sites that reflect the many foreign influences that have passed through the Caucuses—from Silk Road merchants to the Soviet Empire. Ride the funicular over the ancient city of Tbilisi and explore its cobbled streets on a walking tour. Step behind the scenes at the Georgian National Ballet on a specially arranged tour, and trace 15 centuries of Georgian history at the city’s museums.

Venture to Mtskheta, the capital of Georgia from the second to the fifth century, scenically set at the confluence of two rivers. The city is now home to stunning examples of medieval religious architecture that have been collectively named a World Heritage site. Tour some of these grand monuments, including the beautifully preserved Jvari Monastery, perched on a hilltop high above the town since the sixth century. Delve into wine-making traditions that date back 8,000 years during a special wine tasting experience, and see how Georgian cloisonné enamel is crafted on a visit to the Ikorta Enamel Jewelry Studio. (B,L,D)

Day 5-6 — Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Your next flight brings you to the fabled city of Samarkand, once an important crossroads on the Silk Road. With evidence of human settlements dating back as far as 1500 BC, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in the world. Stroll through Registan Square, flanked by majestic madrassahs and mosques clad with luminous mosaics. Learn about the discoveries made at the Ulugh Beg Observatory and admire the exquisite interior of Gur-e-Amir, the ornate tomb of the medieval conqueror Timur, also known as Tamerlane. Then visit the enormous Bibi Khanum Mosque, built to honor Timur’s wife in the 15th century—and once the largest mosque in the Islamic world. Get a taste of Uzbekistan’s rich textile traditions on a visit to a workshop where silk carpets are woven.(B,L,D)

Day 7-9 — Hoi An, Vietnam

Fly to Hoi An, a World Heritage site located on the central coast of Vietnam. The exceptionally well-preserved old city was a thriving trading port from the 15th to the 19th century, and its buildings and street plan reflect a vibrant confluence of cultures. Meander down enchanting streets, exploring Chinese guildhalls and French colonial gems, teahouses and temples, and a stunning Japanese covered bridge. Just outside of town, encounter quintessential Vietnamese landscapes of brilliant rice fields dotted with traditional villages. During your stay in Hoi An, savor the region’s unique cuisine, which incorporates culinary traditions from across East and Southeast Asia. (B,L,D)

Day 10-12 — Bangkok, Thailand

Fly into bustling Bangkok and enjoy two days immersed in this city’s exuberant culture. Glide along the Chao Phraya River, which winds through the heart of Bangkok, cruising past historic temples and palaces, and detour into the klongs, or canals, for a fascinating look at local life. See the world’s largest reclining Buddha at Wat Po, then stroll through the dynamic Creative District, a once-forgotten corner of old Bangkok that has been transformed by street art, innovative businesses, and eclectic art galleries.

Experience the city’s exciting culinary scene from all sides, sampling everything from street food and local specialties in hole-in-the-wall joints to an inventive tasting menu at an acclaimed restaurant. You’ll also have the chance to learn how to make authentic Thai dishes during a cooking class. Venture into the Grand Royal Palace, the residence of the King of Siam from 1782 until the early 20th century. Inside the exquisite Wat Phra Kaew temple on the palace grounds, admire the mysterious Emerald Buddha—only 26 inches tall, but the most revered Buddha image in Thailand. (B,L,D)

Day 13-15 — The Kingdom of Bhutan

Travel by chartered jet to the Kingdom of Bhutan, where a rich and timeless culture endures among emerald valleys and snowcapped peaks. Arrive in Paro and head to the Rinpung Dzong, a spectacular example of Bhutanese architecture perched in the hills overlooking the Paro Valley. On an excursion to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, visit the Dechen Phodrang Monastery, a monastic school that houses 12th-century paintings and other important Bhutanese artifacts. At the National Textile Museum, learn about thangka weaving techniques, and see examples of locally made textiles and traditional dress. Return to Paro and take part in a range of activities or simply relax at your stunning hotel, a showpiece of Bhutanese craftsmanship set among lovely parklands. If you wish, hit the trails for a vigorous hike to Taktsang Palphug Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, built high on a cliffside more than 10,000 feet above sea level. (B,L,D)

Day 16 — Kathmandu, Nepal

Fly above soaring Himalayan peaks to colorful Kathmandu, where Buddhist and Hindu traditions have intermingled for centuries. Set out into the World Heritage-listed Kathmandu Valley to visit two ancient cities: in Patan, stroll the expansive Durbar Square, filled with temples, towering pagodas, and detailed brickwork; and in Bhaktapur, visit the Palace of 55 Windows, named for its beautiful wooden window frames, as well as the intricately carved Golden Gate. Then venture into the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, dedicated to Shiva and built in the Nepalese pagoda style; or explore the iconic Boudhanath Stupa, where thousands of pilgrims gather daily. (B,L,D)

Day 17-18 — Doha, Qatar

A rising star in the Middle East, Qatar holds a reputation as a hub of art and culture. Embark on a journey through Doha, the vibrant heart of the country. Tour of Souq Waqif, a bustling market dating back to the 19th century, thoughtfully refurbished to preserve its timeless charm. Meander through an intricate maze of shopping stalls, where local vendors and artisans showcase an array of products. Then explore the National Museum of Qatar, an architectural masterpiece by French architect Jean Nouvel, celebrating Qatar's heritage and future. Exhibits span the desert's natural history, Bedouin artifacts, tribal wars, state establishment, and the oil era. Step aboard four-wheel drive vehicles and travel across towering sand dunes that stretch to the shores of the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid), a UNESCO World Heritage site and pristine natural reserve,  one of only three places in the world where desert dunes converge with the ocean. Sail aboard an authentic dhow through the tranquil waters of West Bay for an enchanting perspective of the city's glittering skyline.

Day 19-21 — Valletta, Malta

The private jet brings you to the World Heritage site of Valletta, Malta’s capital city, set on a peninsula jutting out into a beautiful harbor. On a harbor cruise, take in views of the city’s golden-stone historic center, which was fortified by the Knights of Saint John in the 16th century. Then venture into town on a walking tour to get a closer view of its many Renaissance and baroque monuments, including the Grand Master’s Palace and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s famous work, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. Admire the view from the Upper Baraka Gardens, and journey inland to the walled town of Mdina, a former capital that tells the story of 4,000 years of Maltese history—from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and the Knights Templar.

The next day, take a short boat ride to the tiny island of Gozo for a full day tour that begins with the extraordinary temple at Ggantija, a World Heritage site comprised of megalithic structures that stand some 20 feet tall. In the town of Victoria, visit the hilltop citadel and the cathedral before lunch at a local restaurant. See the island’s salt pans and enjoy a leisurely afternoon cruise back to Valletta. Alternatively, tour the southern reaches of Malta, including two megalithic tombs also designated as World Heritage sites: Hagar Qim and Mnajdra. View the unusual Blue Grotto on the coast, and enjoy free time meandering through the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. In the afternoon, gather for a wine tasting and tour at the Ta’Betta Wine Estate. (B,L,D)

Day 22 — Return to London, England

Board the private jet a final time for your flight to London. This evening, toast your journey to the Middle East and Asia’s cultural crossroads at a celebratory farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 23 — Depart for Home

Depart for the airport to connect to your commercial flight home.